Robert Hale Jr., CEO of Granite Telecommunications and a noted billionaire, made the commencement of the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth Class of 2024 unforgettable by gifting each graduate $1,000. The announcement was made during a rainy graduation ceremony where Hale spoke about the virtues of failure and perseverance.
As Hale declared the surprise, staff brought onstage large duffel bags filled with envelopes containing the cash gifts. The graduates received these envelopes as they walked the stage to collect their diplomas. However, there was a twist to this benevolent gesture. Hale instructed that $500 of the gift should be donated to a cause dear to the recipient’s heart or to help someone in need.
“We want to give you two gifts,” Hale said. “The first is our gift to you, the second is the gift of giving.”
Hale emphasized the importance of support and generosity, especially in challenging times. “These trying times have heightened the need for sharing, caring, and giving. Our community and our world need our help more than ever,” he remarked.
A total of 1,200 graduates were fortunate to receive this unique gift, according to UMass Dartmouth’s communication with FOX Business. Forbes lists Hale’s net worth at approximately $5.4 billion. He founded Granite Telecommunications in 2002 following the bankruptcy of his previous venture, Network Plus. Beyond his business achievements, Hale is also recognized for his extensive contributions to cancer research and educational causes, with donations exceeding $270 million.